I can't see that as being true. Totally different car, i.e 2nd versus 3rd gen. As an additional comment: the Mazda Australia OEM unit for the 3rd Gen. (at least) is a very subtle towbar; well-nigh invisible with the hitch removed from the vertically-oriented receiver-tube. That's the GOOD. The BAD is that the actual energy absorbing stanchions / "bumper reinforcement bar" assembly (i.e. the ACTUAL BUMPER!) is removed and discarded in installing the towbar. Sorry, not for this Cowboy! Inferior rear bumper performance in a rear shunt (when you're not coupled to a trailer)... possibly resulting in more whiplash injury and certainly more damage to your car...

This comment may be moot if you're not talking about the Mazda Australia OEM towbar.

 

I can't see that as being true. Totally different car, i.e 2nd versus 3rd gen. As an additional comment: the Mazda Australia OEM unit for the 3rd Gen. (at least) is a very subtle towbar; well-nigh invisible with the hitch removed from the vertically-oriented receiver-tube. That's the GOOD. The BAD is that the actual energy absorbing stanchions / "bumper reinforcement bar" assembly (i.e. the ACTUAL BUMPER!) is removed and discarded in installing the towbar. Sorry, not for this Cowboy! Inferior rear bumper performance in a rear shunt (when you're not coupled to a trailer)... possibly resulting in more whiplash injury and certainly more damage to your car... This comment may be moot if you're not talking about the Mazda Australia OEM towbar.

Thank you for your very helpful response.